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Bangladesh: Government

Coat of Arms of People's Republic of Bangladesh

Key Figures

Chief of State: President Abdul Hamid

Head of Government: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

Overview

Government Name: People's Republic of Bangladesh

Constitution: Adopted: 1972; Declares the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens, states the fundamental principles of state policy, establishes structure and functions of the three branches of government (executive, legislative, judicial). It also proclaims nationalism, democracy, socialism, and secularity as national ideals.

The constitution allows the president to act only upon the advice of the prime minister and cabinet. They are responsible for the appointments of various officials and can refuse to assent to any bill passed by parliament but send it back for review. They also act as the chancellor for various universities. The prime minister is collectively accountable for their policies and actions to the parliament, to their political party, and ultimately to the electorate.

The president is elected by national parliament. The prime minister is appointed by the president.

President: 5 years; Prime Minister: no term limits

Judicial

The supreme court is the highest judicial power.

Supreme court judges are appointed by the president.

Mandatory retirement age of 67

Legislative

The unicameral national parliament or Jatiya Sangsad are tasked with carrying out foreign and domestic policies.

300 seats (45 reserved for women) are elected by popular vote from single territorial constituencies.